Restorative Dentistry

Inlays & Onlays

Inlays and onlays are indirect dental restorations that reinforce an existing
tooth that is too damaged to support a filling, but not damaged enough to
require a crown. Inlays and onlays are known as indirect fillings because unlike
a standard filling, both are made in a laboratory and cemented or bonded to the
surface of the tooth during a second visit. Unlike standard fillings, inlays and
onlays do not weaken the tooth structure, but actually strengthen it. After the
procedure the tooth can bear up to 50 - 75% more chewing force.

Because both are fabricated in a dental laboratory, it usually takes two or more
appointments to restore a tooth with a porcelain inlay or onlay.